ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md. –
For junior enlisted Airmen interested in making the most out of their career, the Airmen Professional Enhancement Course is a great chance to learn important lessons that will help any future in the Air Force.
"The Airman Professional Enhancement Course mission is to bridge the gap between initial military training and Airman Leadership School. APEC addresses the issues, challenges, and opportunities facing Airmen," said Master Sgt. Steffanie Jenkins, 316th Force Support Squadron career assistance advisor. "It enhances the professional development of all Airmen and sets the foundation for their success as they advance in their Air Force careers."
Part of what Airmen learn during the APEC includes what responsibilities each carries as individual Airmen.
"The Airman Professional Enhancement Course serves as a helpful refresher between FTAC and ALS to keep Airmen sharp and in the know on customs and policies, programs available to them and various base facilities and their functions."
The knowledge that Airmen gain through this course open up new possibilities for their education.
"The class is broken down into different sections, briefings and activities, very much like FTAC," said Airman 1st Class Katie Justen, 316th Wing public affairs specialist and head of social media for the installation. "I learned a great deal about College Level Examination Program and Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support tests - that you can walk into the education center Monday through Thursday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and request to take any of a number of tests for credit, and you only need a score of 50 percent or more to pass. I learned that during a lunch break, an Airman can knock out up to six credits or six months worth of work."
APEC also gives Airmen a chance to ask any questions they may have about their futures.
"The students discuss issues and, with the guidance of facilitators, gain a better understanding of each concept and how it impacts their careers now and in the future," said Sergeant Jenkins.
Instructors are eager to help each Airman advance their Air Force career.
"All the facilitators are passionate about the subjects they teach," said Sergeant Jenkins. "This ensures that the information is being relayed in a manner the Airmen can retain and utilize as they return to their duty sections."
The course has a lasting and powerful effect on the Airmen involved as they learn just how incredible their opportunities in the Air Force are.
"I enjoy watching the Airmen's eyes light up as they begin to understand that they control their career paths and that path starts now," said Sergeant Jenkins. "There is nothing better than hearing on the final day of the course, 'thanks for what you do.'"
For more information on classes, requirements and availability, visit https://afkm.wpafb.af.mil/ ASPs/CoP/OpenCoP.asp?Filter=OO-ED-AM-02 and click "APEC."